A group of 12 Year 9 students and five staff members from St Mark’s Anglican Community School recently ventured on a 1,600km journey to Parnngurr, a remote Indigenous settlement in the East Pilbara. This visit marked the third year of St Mark’s partnership with the Parnngurr Community School.
“I have been lucky enough to have attended the Parnngurr tour for three years in a row, and I hope I can attend for many more years to come. The relationships built and the trust gained from our trips has been cup filling to say the least!” reflected Mrs Parson, St Mark’s teacher.
Located 370km east of Newman, Parnngurr is home to the Martu people, whose traditional lands cover parts of the Little and Great Sandy Desert, including Karlamilyi National Park. The week-long visit allowed students to connect with the community and experience Martu culture firsthand.
“Meeting the kids of Parnngurr School was like meeting long-lost friends. Through games of basketball, volleyball and hide and seek we became even closer, getting fooled by their magic tricks and entranced by their extensive knowledge of the land,” said Sophie, a Year 9 St Mark’s student.
Students learned from Community Elders and rangers during their stay and spent three days ‘on country’ with local students. The experience promoted respect and empathy, allowing participants to form strong connections and work on personal development.
“I’ve learnt so much about myself on this camp, as you were able to be yourself around others without fear of judgement. You aren’t worried about how you look, or you aren’t worried about impressing other people; I feel that this is something everyone should do,” said Kai, a Year 9 St Mark’s student.
St Mark’s hopes to continue strengthening its relationship with the Parnngurr community.